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The total number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in Scotland has reached 719.

There have been 135 new confirmed cases since yesterday.

Earlier Nicola Sturgeon confirmed the number of deaths here had reached 22 and there are 51 people in intensive care.

She explained a new advisory body, chaired by Professor Andrew Morris from the University of Edinburgh will help give "the fullest possible understanding of exactly how the virus is spreading in Scotland".

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The new Scottish Government Covid-19 advisory group will supplement the work of Sage - the UK Scientific Advisory Group on Emergencies - which has been advising ministers north and south of the border.

Ms Sturgeon said: "At all times, the Scottish Government's actions have been guided by the best and most up to date expert scientific advice, working closely of course with Governments across the UK.

"But as the number of cases increase it is every more important that we have the fullest possible understanding of exactly how the virus is spreading in Scotland.

"We need to be certain that the decisions we are taking are the most effective ones possible and we need to know whether there are more steps that are required to be taken.

Coronavirus in Scotland

"So for that reason I can confirm today we are now seeking to supplement the advice from the UK Scientific Advisory Group on Emergencies, or Sage as it is known, and we are establishing a new Scottish Government Covid-19 advisory group."